SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
WARNING
We suggest that you read the information below before using the boat. Failure
to follow the warnings /precautions below may lead to serious injury or death.
Paddle sports such as kayaking can be dangerous and physically demanding.
Participating in paddle sports may put you at risk of serious injury or death. You
should receive qualified instructions to learn proper paddling techniques, water
safety, and first aid before going boating.
1. Weather and water conditions
Check the weather and water conditions before you go boating. Your boat is
designed to be used only in sheltered waters, lakes, and slow-moving streams.
It is not designed for whitewater use. Never go paddling in severe winds,
rain, thunderstorms, choppy waters, strong currents, flood waters, or where
tides will seriously affect your ability to steer the boat or return to shore.
2. Every passenger should always wear a Coast Guard approved
Personal Flotation Device (PFD) when using this boat.
Before going paddling, read the PFD manufacturer’s information pamphlet regarding
the PFD and thoroughly familiarize yourself with how the PFD is to be worn.
3. Never use or consume alcohol, drugs, or any other substance that
may affect your coordination, judgment or ability to safely operate
the boat.
4. Sound device
The Coast Guard requires boaters to have a means of signaling other boaters
of their presence. You should keep a sound device in the boat with you at all
times. If possible, attach the sound device to your Personal Flotation Device.
5. Never stand up in the boat
Standing up in the boat may cause it to capsize. If the boat should
capsize, please note that, in most cases, it is far more dangerous
to attempt to swim to shore than to stay with the boat.
6. Never exceed your ability
Honestly assess your physical capability as to how far
and how long you can paddle and swim.
7. Slippery when wet
The hull material is extremely slick when wet. Always wear slip-
resistant shoes and stay in the center of the boat.
8. Hypothermia
Boating accidents in cold water are very dangerous. Hypothermia, the loss
of body heat due to immersion in cold water, can be deadly. Survival time
can be as short as 15 minutes in 35°F (2°C) water. Dress appropriately
for weather conditions, wearing a wet or dry suit if necessary.
9. Never paddle alone
It is best to have someone with you in case of an emergency or accident.
Also, always tell someone your boating plans, including where you are
going, how long you’ll be gone, and how many people you’ll be with.
10. Never allow minors to use this boat without adult supervision.
11. Always familiarize yourself with the body of water where you will
be paddling.
Learn what hours boating is permitted, whether there are any known hazardous
conditions and where you can get help quickly in case of emergency or accident.
12. Always abide by all Coast Guard regulations and State/Provincial
and local laws, regulations, ordinances, and rules concerning
boating and boating safety.
Check with the Coast Guard and State/Provincial and local authorities
concerning proper boat handling and the proper equipment to be
carried on board, such as lights and sound-producing devices.
13. Drain plugs
Check that the drain plug of the kayak (on certain models only) is securely in
place before launching the kayak. You should drain the space between the
deck and the hull of any water accumulated due to condensation or seepage.
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